Dendrobium cuthbertsonii f. red

Dendrobium cuthbertsonii f. red is a highly sought-after miniature orchid species, renowned for its vivid red flowers. This form is native to the high-altitude cloud forests of Papua New Guinea, where it grows as an epiphyte in cool, humid environments with excellent air circulation .

Description:

• Growth Habit: Miniature epiphyte, often smaller than the flowers it produces.
• Flowers: The red form is especially prized for its intense, bright red blooms. Individual flowers can last for up to a year, making it one of the longest-flowering orchids in cultivation. The flowers are typically larger than the foliage, creating a striking display .
• Blooming: Free-flowering, with blooms that can appear year-round if conditions are right.

Habitat & Range:

• Native range: Papua New Guinea and the Bismarck Archipelago.
• Elevation: Found at high altitudes, up to 3,000 meters (about 10,000 feet) above sea level.
• Environment: Grows on mossy trees, rocks, and cliff slopes in cloud forests, often in areas with constant moisture and cool temperatures.

Cultivation Tips:

• Light: Bright, indirect light.
• Temperature: Cool to intermediate, mimicking its native high-altitude habitat.
• Humidity: High humidity with excellent air circulation is essential.
• Water: Keep evenly moist year-round; do not allow to dry out.
• Other: Benefits from being grown in sphagnum moss or mounted, with regular fertilization and steady conditions.

Summary:
Dendrobium cuthbertsonii f. red is a jewel among miniature orchids, celebrated for its long-lasting, vibrant red flowers and its adaptability to cool, humid, and bright environments. It is ideal for experienced growers who can provide the stable, cool, and moist conditions this species requires to thrive and bloom spectacularly.